Rural King: Browning Buck Mark Micro Bull 22LR: input

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  • doddg

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    Well, I'm not getting much feedback about getting something different than the Browning Buck Mark Bull 4" for $260 ($278 w/tax), including the Manufacturer's rebate.
    I just got off the phone with Rural King and he didn't know about the Rebate, but we got that straightened out.
    If I buy it I would have $278 in it, and that is cheaper than private sales that are going on here and Armslist.
    I would spend more if there is a "better" model, if I should not settle for a 4" barrel, or settle for not getting stainless.
    Perhaps it won't be any better than my Shield Compact, anyway?
    And, perhaps it wouldn't be any better than some of the other semi-auto .22LRs that I've already got.
    The Browning has come highly recommended and when the price gets down to $280 new it gets my interest (paid $300 at Rural King for my Shield Compact), especially if I can't buy a used one for less anyway, which is my preference.

    Choices:
    a. don't buy another 22LR
    b. buy this Browning
    c. buy a different Browning
    d. don't buy anything but a Smith 41, and sell all others :laugh:
     

    seedubs1

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    1) You already have 5 22 pistols. Do you really need 6? What will this do that the others won't? It is higher quality, so are you going to sell others and replace it with this Browning BM?

    2) I wouldn't worry too much about barrel length. You don't gain accuracy with barrel length, you gain velocity. Will you be shooting far enough for the extra velocity to matter? (Note, you do gain some sight radius, and added accuracy due to that)

    3) Should you be focusing on 22's right now? Seems like you have 5 of them.....is there another area in your collection that is lacking? Maybe a full size steel gun? Seems like you have a LOT of 22's and micro 9/380's.

    4) Are you only buying this because it's a "good deal" or is it really what you need?
     

    Areoflyer09

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    Well, I'm not getting much feedback about getting something different than the Browning Buck Mark Bull 4" for $260 ($278 w/tax), including the Manufacturer's rebate.
    I just got off the phone with Rural King and he didn't know about the Rebate, but we got that straightened out.
    If I buy it I would have $278 in it, and that is cheaper than private sales that are going on here and Armslist.
    I would spend more if there is a "better" model, if I should not settle for a 4" barrel, or settle for not getting stainless.
    Perhaps it won't be any better than my Shield Compact, anyway?
    And, perhaps it wouldn't be any better than some of the other semi-auto .22LRs that I've already got.
    The Browning has come highly recommended and when the price gets down to $280 new it gets my interest (paid $300 at Rural King for my Shield Compact), especially if I can't buy a used one for less anyway, which is my preference.

    Choices:
    a. don't buy another 22LR
    b. buy this Browning
    c. buy a different Browning
    d. don't buy anything but a Smith 41, and sell all others :laugh:

    If I had the itch for a Bull model, I’d buy it. I’ve just come to terms that I want a fancier Buckmark and I have to convince the wife to let me sell my MkIV that she’s claimed before I can buy it.

    By design, I think the Buckmark would be more accurate than the Shield Compact. One is a target style pistol and the other is a training style pistol. Could be totally wrong on that though, but it’s how I see it.

    Do any any of your Glocks have the ability to use the 22LR training kit? If so, I’d look into that as well.
     

    Alpo

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    33oleol.jpg


    I also reversed the sear spring which makes the trigger incredibly light. For range use only. I reverse it again for field carry.
     

    mcapo

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    d. SW 41

    or d.1 Save few dollars and buy a Competition Mark IV

    The BM is a fine gun but I don't see how it offers you anything you don't already have. The Mark IV and the 41 bring more to the table. Rather you desire and/or appreciate it, is up to you but at least try champagne before buying more beer.
     

    WebSnyper

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    Do any any of your Glocks have the ability to use the 22LR training kit? If so, I’d look into that as well.

    His 26 would.

    OP, Be aware if you go the Advantage Arms kit route, you will need to follow AA's specific recommendations for ammo to be used in the kits. The kits will generally not feed other than recommended ammo.

    Good news is on the 26, you don't have to get a specific Gen 3 or Gen 4 kit, vs on the larger pistols you do: Advantage Arms Secure Online Store: Which Kit Will Fit My Glock?

    I have a kit for my Gen 3 19, and I had a kit for my 26 (but sold that one off to an INGO member quite some time back). The kits worked out nicely for me as I typically have more than one of the same firearm and can essentially dedicate a frame to run the kit during a specific range visit. They are however easy to swap during a range visit as well.

    I even have a Trijicon HD front sight (it has a dead tritium vial) and a blacked out rear sight on my 19 AA kit so I can duplicate the sight setup on my Glock 19.

    That said, I don't necessarily see the OP doing this as the AA kit costs as much (or in my case a bit more than I paid) for the S&W Compact 22 he already has.
     

    Areoflyer09

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    His 26 would.

    OP, Be aware if you go the Advantage Arms kit route, you will need to follow AA's specific recommendations for ammo to be used in the kits. The kits will generally not feed other than recommended ammo.

    Good news is on the 26, you don't have to get a specific Gen 3 or Gen 4 kit, vs on the larger pistols you do: Advantage Arms Secure Online Store: Which Kit Will Fit My Glock?

    I have a kit for my Gen 3 19, and I had a kit for my 26 (but sold that one off to an INGO member quite some time back). The kits worked out nicely for me as I typically have more than one of the same firearm and can essentially dedicate a frame to run the kit during a specific range visit. They are however easy to swap during a range visit as well.

    I even have a Trijicon HD front sight (it has a dead tritium vial) and a blacked out rear sight on my 19 AA kit so I can duplicate the sight setup on my Glock 19.

    That said, I don't necessarily see the OP doing this as the AA kit costs as much (or in my case a bit more than I paid) for the S&W Compact 22 he already has.


    I figured it’d be a long shot, but theoretically a better training option than two different platforms (SW 22 vs Glock + 22kit) wouldn’t it?
     

    WebSnyper

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    I figured it’d be a long shot, but theoretically a better training option than two different platforms (SW 22 vs Glock + 22kit) wouldn’t it?

    Absolutely, and the very reason I have one. However, our OP doesn't seem to be in that mode (training with the same platform, etc).
     

    Areoflyer09

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    Absolutely, and the very reason I have one. However, our OP doesn't seem to be in that mode (training with the same platform, etc).

    I can’t really throw stones on that one. I’m not much better. Hard to say buy the logical choice when a MkIII & MkIV are the only common pistols in the safe. Granted I also don’t carry and majority of my time is spent as stress relief at the range.

    Just thought the 22 conversion kits would be a good thing to consider.
     

    doddg

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    1) You already have 5 22 pistols. Do you really need 6? What will this do that the others won't? It is higher quality, so are you going to sell others and replace it with this Browning BM?

    1. Good salient questions which I ask myself.
    2. I have 6 semi-autos and 3 revolvers (not counting the .22 magnum)
    3. I have reached the place where I should sell one if I buy another but I try not to apply that rule to my 22LRs: weakness!
    4. I could sell the SW Compact w/o issue if the Buck Mark was "better" since I cannot imagine it being materially different.

    2) I wouldn't worry too much about barrel length. You don't gain accuracy with barrel length, you gain velocity. Will you be shooting far enough for the extra velocity to matter? (Note, you do gain some sight radius, and added accuracy due to that)

    5. You are correct. I can't even see 40-50' down the range and usually limit myself to 21' - 30'.

    3) Should you be focusing on 22's right now? Seems like you have 5 of them.....is there another area in your collection that is lacking? Maybe a full size steel gun? Seems like you have a LOT of 22's and micro 9/380's.

    6. I have three .380s and two must go: only need 1 for deep CC.
    7. I have the Glock 43 and Shield 9 and one must go.
    8. The Glock 26 stays b/c of the unique niche it fills for me: a "bigger" CC and a range 9mm (it usually beats other larger 9mms).
    9. The two FNS (4" and 5") are just for fun like the Ruger P89SD, and so something (s) there needs to go, but I would like to keep one for when I could carry a larger 9mm.


    4) Are you only buying this because it's a "good deal" or is it really what you need?

    10. Yes, the Buck Mark has been on my radar, but used prices are higher than what I can get them for new in what has become available.

    If I had the itch for a Bull model, I’d buy it. I’ve just come to terms that I want a fancier Buckmark and I have to convince the wife to let me sell my MkIV that she’s claimed before I can buy it.

    11. What I would really like to have in the Buck Mark costs $100 - $200 more than this $280 (with the tax included) Micro Bu
    12. No itch, just the opportunity for a Buck Mark at a price that got my attention.

    By design, I think the Buckmark would be more accurate than the Shield Compact. One is a target style pistol and the other is a training style pistol. Could be totally wrong on that though, but it’s how I see it.

    13. If I bought the Buckmark either it or the SW Compact would have to go since I am getting the idea that they are samish.

    Do any any of your Glocks have the ability to use the 22LR training kit? If so, I’d look into that as well.

    14. No interest in changing out barrels: want only dedicated guns.
    15. Perhaps if I was more knowledgeable and experienced that would have an appeal, but not at this point and I think the older I get at no point.


    d. SW 41
    or d.1 Save few dollars and buy a Competition Mark IV
    The BM is a fine gun but I don't see how it offers you anything you don't already have. The Mark IV and the 41 bring more to the table. Rather you desire and/or appreciate it, is up to you but at least try champagne before buying more beer.

    16. I keep hearing about the SW 41 ($1100-$1300 at the place I'm not allowed to mention).
    17. Your remark that is doesn't offer anything I don't already have rings in my year!
    18. The analogy is classic! I get it. I hear you.
    19. I am weak, but I might want to settle the 9mm question before I do any more 22LR buying.
    20. Perhaps if I get back to shooting my 22LRs I will not want/need to do anything right at the moment (unless a SW 41 falls in my lap, of course).

    That said, I don't necessarily see the OP doing this as the AA kit costs as much (or in my case a bit more than I paid) for the S&W Compact 22 he already has.[/QUOTE]

    21. Correct.

    Absolutely, and the very reason I have one. However, our OP doesn't seem to be in that mode (training with the same platform, etc).

    22. I desire the variety.

    I can’t really throw stones on that one. I’m not much better. Hard to say buy the logical choice when a MkIII & MkIV are the only common pistols in the safe. Granted I also don’t carry and majority of my time is spent as stress relief at the range.

    23. Exactly: stress relief at the range!

    24. Thanks, guys! I truly appreciate your input and insights.
    25. My instincts are telling my to wait, and not buy since I haven't taken advantage of my other 22LRs and I need to shoot them (as advised earlier by someone) till I find out which I can live w/o.
    26. The Bersa Thunder might be the first one on the list, now that I've found a couple of ammo types that will run through it w/o incident (while finding there are 2-3 that won't (low FPS ones and hollow points in the 1200s FPS range). At least I can sell in good conscience just warning others that is is ammo-sensitive.
     

    seedubs1

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    Sounds like you’re set on handguns. If I were you, I’d only buy something new if I were selling old stuff that doesn’t get used.

    How is your rifle collection? Have an AR yet?
     

    Areoflyer09

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    If it makes any difference the conversion kits are slide swaps instead of barrel swaps! You can just swap it all at once. :): I’m splitting hairs here aren’t?

    You may be on a hunt for the greenest grass. If you want one to try because you haven’t had one, go for it.
     

    gmcttr

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    11. What I would really like to have in the Buck Mark costs $100 - $200 more than this $280 (with the tax included) Micro Bu

    Than wait for the one you want. I have never found the "substitute deal" to satisfy me and always end up spending more to get what I really wanted later. The substitute has always been a waste of time and money.
     

    doddg

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    I think you've alluded to the one in the classifieds here as priced too high but his has 4 mags. How many does the RK one come with?

    1. Yes, and it's on armslist (think it is the same one).
    2. RK is 2 mags, but I don't care about mags, it is simply a selling feature even though I do prefer to have 2 instead of just 1 like with the Bersa Thunder .22LR.
    3. I have "unlimited" range time so loading up multiple mags has no appeal, although I have done that when I was paying by the hour.


    Sounds like you’re set on handguns. If I were you, I’d only buy something new if I were selling old stuff that doesn’t get used.
    How is your rifle collection? Have an AR yet?

    4. Yes. I used to have multiple rifles in another lifetime 40 yrs. ago, and bought a lovely Henry Lever Action, but my eyes are not good enough for shooting distance, I can't even see the front sight, much less the target way down the range, and using a rifle at 20 or 30 feet seemed too odd.
    5. AR? No comment. I could use a single bolt action rifle and be happy, and with handguns, when I have seen single shot handgun I look with interest: make me go slow and easy.
    6. I don't have anything at this point that doesn't get used, but I have been busy with other calibers and haven't done much with my .22LRs lately, but that will be corrected this summer after surgery: I could be the only guy who has ever taken his walker to the range with him and sat in it while shooting (big talk before the pain hits :ugh:). And, It could be I'll be able to sell a 22 or two after putting them through their paces all summer: I have 1000s and 1000s of rounds I have been stocking up on, but just not had the time to indulge!


    If it makes any difference the conversion kits are slide swaps instead of barrel swaps! You can just swap it all at once. :): I’m splitting hairs here aren’t?

    6. I have admitted that it is ignorance and lack of experience that I am not open to it, even though I have seen with interest some for sale, like a Sig recently for about $900, but too pricey simply for the privilege of using the same frame (rather put that kind of money toward a Smith 41, or a Browning Target or perhaps a Beretta Target).
    7. You would have to have different mags, also, and it seems like some ingo I have read had a list of parts that were different.
    8. Perhaps all those parts are included when buying the whole slide (except for mags).


    You may be on a hunt for the greenest grass. If you want one to try because you haven’t had one, go for it.

    9. Truly: it is the nuances of a different gun, the hunt for the same that gives me joy. I have been away from guns for 35 yrs. after them being a part of my life for 10 yrs. when I was a youngling (20s), so I am like a kid in a candy store.
    10. For example, I'm ashamed to admit it, but I am so "backward" and unsophisticated about guns that I enjoy my long barrel Beretta Neos ($175 used bought here from a member) as much as any gun I have. I can't explain it, I'm sure it makes be a buffon in others eyes, but it is different, feels different, looks different (read where it looks like a ray gun: hilarious!), goes bang everytime, not ammo sensitive: I love it. :dunno:


    Than wait for the one you want. I have never found the "substitute deal" to satisfy me and always end up spending more to get what I really wanted later. The substitute has always been a waste of time and money.

    11. I always enjoy your comments since I have met you and you know where I'm coming from (I actually was born on this planet, just raised on another :rofl:).
    12. You speak words of wisdom, my friend. I won't be content until I try out a more expensive .22LR (whatever the brand) to see if it really is that much better than what I've got, and if so, I will sell whatever and get "it." Is there any doubt for those that know me? It's just that I have been content with "less."
    13. I suspect that I am not nuanced enough that I could appreciate the more expensive tools to the point of spending 5x more for them.
    I base this on my foray into 1911 .45 acp, that you were a part of, graciously letting my use your Dan Wesson and Kimber at the range: thanks again for your kindness!
    :thumbsup:
    14. You can take the white trash out of the neighborhood, but can't take the white trash out of the man. :laugh: I am so laughing, but I realize dry humor doesn't do well in print.
    15. I love playing the "poor card" b/c of my roots, but at this point: I choose to live like I'm making much less money than I am. It's my secret to financial stability on a teacher's salary (started out at $6000 in 1975, and now my insurance used to cost that much or my taxes. :dunno:).
     
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    Areoflyer09

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    Simply an FYI so you have the information should you want to look into it further.
    The Glock conversion kits are a lot more affordable than the Sig ones. There really isn’t much that’s affordable with Sig, great guns just not cheap.
    https://lanbosarmory.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=117&products_id=42111
    Glock 26 2/LR Conversion kit for $219. Doesn’t seem to be generation specific. Comes with the complete slide, magazine and a range bag to keep it in.


    If you want to try a MkIV Target or a MkIII 22/45 Lite (w/ red dot), let me know. Always happy to let others try things.

    Don’t be ashamed that that you enjoy the simple things. I’ve been through a number of firearms in the last year as I learn, most of the ones that moved on couldn’t be explained in any way that makes sense. We all have the things we enjoy.
     

    WebSnyper

    Time to make the chimichangas
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    Simply an FYI so you have the information should you want to look into it further.
    The Glock conversion kits are a lot more affordable than the Sig ones. There really isn’t much that’s affordable with Sig, great guns just not cheap.
    https://lanbosarmory.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=117&products_id=42111
    Glock 26 2/LR Conversion kit for $219. Doesn’t seem to be generation specific. Comes with the complete slide, magazine and a range bag to keep it in.


    If you want to try a MkIV Target or a MkIII 22/45 Lite (w/ red dot), let me know. Always happy to let others try things.

    Don’t be ashamed that that you enjoy the simple things. I’ve been through a number of firearms in the last year as I learn, most of the ones that moved on couldn’t be explained in any way that makes sense. We all have the things we enjoy.

    You are correct, the kits for the 26/27 are not generation specific. That looks like a great price (been a while since I priced them, but generally in the past they were more in the ball park of $275 or so). I have a ton of mags for my kit for my 19 as I picked them up cheap over the years when I found them (I shoot and move and drop the mags while shooting, just like I would my 19). Interesting about the range bag, as I have not seem that option. They had generally come in a nicely padded, plastic carrying case (with cuts in the padding for the slide, cleaning accessories, etc).

    Also, as stated before, the AA kits are super easy to swap onto the gun. It could easily be done at the range and swapped back, etc. They are ammo sensitive since the kit was designed to work on an existing frame. That said, it doesn't require expensive ammo. I use the recommended Remington Golden Bullet but there are other brands on the recommended list as well: Advantage Arms Secure Online Store: Glock Recommended Ammo

    I ran mine during the first half of a class I took some years back and it was fine. There may be the occasional ammo related hiccup, but quickly clearing it is just part of training.
     
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    Areoflyer09

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    You are correct, the kits for the 26/27 are not generation specific. That looks like a great price (been a while since I priced them, but generally in the past they were more in the ball park of $275 or so). I have a ton of mags for my kit for my 19 as I picked them up cheap over the years when I found them (I shoot and move and drop the mags while shooting, just like I would my 19). Interesting about the range bag, as I have not seem that option. They had generally come in a nicely padded, plastic carrying case (with cuts in the padding for the slide, cleaning accessories, etc).

    The oadded case may be what they are calling a range bag. I didn’t dig particularly deep into it.

    Great price on the MkIV 22/45 Target though.
     
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